Himachal Govt reveals 138 villages still carry caste-based names

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh – The Himachal Pradesh government has revealed that 138 villages in the state are still named after castes. Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi informed the state assembly about this during the monsoon session on Monday.

Negi said that changing the name of any village, town, or city requires approval from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. At present, however, there is no proposal to change the names of these villages. He explained that the Union Government’s guidelines discourage changing names unless there is a very strong reason. Names that are historically significant or familiar to people should generally remain the same. Changes should not be made just for local patriotism or linguistic reasons.

The announcement came during a response to a question from Congress MLA Vinod Sultanpuri from Kasauli. Negi clarified that while 138 villages still carry caste-based names, there is no immediate plan for renaming.

FIRs for flag insults may be withdrawn

In the same assembly session, Negi also addressed questions about protests against the national flag. The Chief Minister, Sukhu, said that FIRs against people who insulted the National Flag at Thunag would be withdrawn if the offenders apologized. He stressed that while protests are allowed, the government will not tolerate anyone insulting the Tricolour or ministers holding constitutional positions.

The incidents took place in July, during a visit by the Revenue Minister to areas in Seraj Assembly constituency, including Janjheli and Thunag. These areas were recently affected by a natural disaster that caused massive damage and losses. During the visit, some BJP workers protested by showing black flags and throwing shoes at the revenue minister’s vehicle carrying the national flag.

More than 50 people were booked for wrongful restraint, unlawful assembly, and rioting. The Mandi police registered cases under sections 126(2), 189(2), 190, and 191(2) of the BNS, which deal with offences related to obstructing government officials and disrespecting the national flag.

New posts and government plans

Revenue Minister Negi also provided updates on administrative matters. He said that the cabinet has approved filling 874 posts of patwaris in the revenue department. These posts will be filled from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2027. Patwaris are important for managing land records, revenue collection, and other administrative tasks in rural areas.

Officials said that the move to fill these posts is aimed at strengthening the revenue department and ensuring better services to people. Negi said that the government is committed to improving administration, maintaining law and order, and ensuring that government officials can work without obstruction.

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Guidelines for village name changes

Negi emphasized that village and town names carry historical and cultural significance. The Union Government has instructed that name changes should be rare and only done for strong reasons. Officials should avoid renaming villages just for local pride, political reasons, or language preferences. These guidelines aim to maintain continuity and respect local traditions.

The government also noted that any changes in village or city names need the Ministry of Home Affairs’ approval. This ensures that decisions are made carefully and consistently across the country.

Handling protests and law enforcement

Regarding protests, the Chief Minister made it clear that citizens have the right to express their opinions, but the law will act against anyone who disrespects national symbols. By offering the option of withdrawing FIRs for offenders who apologize, the government aims to balance law enforcement with reconciliation.

The recent protests in Seraj show the sensitivity of citizens in disaster-affected areas. The administration has urged people to protest peacefully and work with government officials to resolve issues. The police and revenue officials have been instructed to ensure that public property is protected, and officials can perform their duties safely.

In summary, Himachal Pradesh still has 138 villages with caste-based names. Changing these names requires Union Government approval, and there is no immediate plan to rename them. Meanwhile, FIRs against people who disrespected the national flag in Thunag may be withdrawn if apologies are made. The government is also working to fill key administrative positions in the revenue department and ensure smooth governance. These steps show the state’s focus on maintaining law and order, respecting historical and cultural traditions, and improving administration across Himachal Pradesh.